Why is the Flu Jab important?

The flu can lead to severe complications, especially if you’re in a vulnerable group, such as pregnant women or people aged 65 and above. As we age, our immune system gets weaker, which means you’re more susceptible for infections. Pregnant women, too, will be experiencing changes in their immune system, which means they’re more prone to flu-related complications. Getting vaccinated against the flu helps to reduce the risk of severe illnesses related to the flu, which can lead to hospitalisation and even death.

Flu vaccinations are an important part of public health efforts to control the spread of the virus each year. By getting vaccinated, you’re not only protecting yourselves, but also contributing to creating something called “herd immunity”, which helps to safeguard the people who can’t receive the flu jab - including newborns and people with certain medical conditions.

Where can I get the Flu Jab?

It’s actually pretty easy to get the flu jab if you’re in one of the vulnerable communities. Booking your flu jab at a community pharmacy or local chemist is straightforward, and offers numerous advantages, especially for seniors and pregnant women:

Accessibility: Your nearest chemist should be conveniently situated in your neighbourhood - you can usually reach a pharmacy by foot, or with a short drive to your nearest high street. Avoiding long journeys and crowded places is particularly important during flu season, so a trip to your GP might not be at the top of your list. Pop into your local pharmacy today, and you’ll find a safe and accessible option for getting vaccinated.

Short Wait Times: Another advantage of a pharmacy near you is that they typically offer very efficient services, which means a shorter wait time compared to hospitals or medical clinics. You can get the phone number of your nearest pharmacy using our postcode search tool, and give your local pharmacy team a call to check when would be a good time to pop in for a vaccination, so you can book your flu jab at a time that suits you.

Supportive Staff: The pharmacists at your nearest chemist are trained to provide friendly, supportive guidance for all kinds of minor ailments and medical issues. Your pharmacy team will understand your unique needs, and will strive to provide a caring experience throughout the vaccination process for pregnant women and people over the age of 65, providing personalised and compassionate care to their communities. They will be able to answer any questions you may have about the flu jab, and ensure that the vaccination is safe and appropriate for your individual health needs.

-

It’s important for over 65s and pregnant women to prioritise their health and well-being by booking their flu jab starting from September 11th. The flu vaccine is a safe and effective way to protect against the virus and its potentially severe complications. Mark your calendar, and visit your local community pharmacy to secure your flu jab, to protect yourself, your community and loved ones.